Bordering the Gulf of Guinea to the south, Togo is one of the smallest countries in Africa and one of the narrowest in the world. The country gained independence from France in 1960, and today, Togo is a tourist destination that is off-the-beaten-track but no less attractive than its more famous tourist hotspot compatriots.
You would find a myriad of landscapes in Togo – from beaches and lakes to lush, green forests and savannahs to forested hills. There is a lot to explore in this beautiful country. Togo is also a melting pot of more than 40 tribal cultures that add colorful hues to its character. As you prepare for your trip to Togo, be sure to buy travel medical insurance as a precaution of coverage against any unexpected accidents, illnesses, or injuries that might occur.
Togo Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers – FAQs
You can’t look into the future and discover when a disease or accident might strike you. But if such an unfortunate event occurs, treatment would be expensive in a foreign country. Also, the medical facilities in Togo are not up to first-world standards. So, the most viable option would be to purchase travel medical insurance in advance of your trip.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Togo?
Travel medical insurance is not a requirement to enter Togo. But it is advisable to buy it before visiting, as it can save you money on medical treatment should you need it in Togo.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Togo?
It would be unfortunate to meet with any mishap while you are traveling. Seeking treatment in private facilities or getting a medical evacuation both would cost you a lot of money. To stay financially protected, buy Togo travel medical insurance before you go on your trip.
Things to Do for Travelers in Togo
This endearing sliver of a country has a lot to welcome visitors with. From a capital town with Parisian-inspired elegant boulevards to marshlands and misty mountains – there is something for every traveler here. Days spent here will remain etched on your mind forever.
- Koutammakou: Adobe-walled and thatched-roof huts dominate this village in northern Togo. UNESCO designated it as a World Heritage Site in 2004. You will get to experience the lifestyle of the traditional inhabitants of Togo here. Excellent views of undulating hills and bushlands right up to the horizon are also an attraction.
- Agbodrafo: Located on the banks of Lake Togo, enjoy some relaxing time at The Hotel le Lac in this town. This luxurious resort extends right up to the banks of the lake. Opportunities for watersports like jet skiing and pedal boating are available in Agbodrafo. Looking for some beach activity? Head to the Atlantic Ocean on the other side of town and laze around on the shining beaches there.
- Fazao Malfakassa National Park: This 2,000-square-kilometer (about 772-square-mile) national park is the largest in Togo and is full of thick forests and grasslands. The primary attraction here is the rare forest elephant. The Togo government undertook conservation measures several years back, and as a result, the great beasts are growing in numbers. You would also get to see bay duikers, antelopes, kobs, and much more.
- Keran National Park: Another conservation movement from the government, this park is also home to elephants, antelopes, and bushbuck. Different types of landscapes adorn this park, from rocky hills to swamplands, allowing a variety of sights to behold.
- Kara: A long drive from the capital, Lome, visit Kara to catch some breathtaking views of rocky escarpments and mountains. Located by the Haugeau River, the views of the setting sun from Kara are a sight to behold. Kara is also a large town with a bustling market from which you can pick up some traditional Togolese voodoo mementos.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Togo
While Togo does have a lot to offer in terms of scenic beauty and wildlife, it also has its share of travel risks. Hence, international travelers need to be on their guard while traveling to this country.
- Keep cash and valuables securely on your person. Don’t carry or flaunt too much of either.
- Strong ocean currents are prevalent in some parts of the coast. Drownings occur frequently, so pay heed to the related warnings, and don’t swim unsupervised.
- Avoid taking photographs of government buildings and the security forces. They might confiscate your camera.
- Traffic conditions in Togo are highly worrying. So if you plan to self-drive in the country, please exercise extreme caution while on the road. Most drivers and pedestrians don’t care much about traffic rules and regulations.
Before You Travel to Togo - Do This
We are sure that you will have an enjoyable vacation in Togo. But do keep these simple tips in mind.
Opt for Togo travel medical insurance before you leave for peace of mind in case of any unexpected accidents or illnesses.
Keep sufficient back-up copies of your travel documents in a safe location.
Don’t keep all your cash in your wallet or in any single place.